top of page

Bovingdon Dance Academy Ltd

Anti-Bullying Policy

​

At Bovingdon Dance Academy (BDA), we are committed to creating a positive, inclusive and supportive environment where every child feels safe, valued and respected.

​

Bullying of any kind is not accepted at BDA. We take all concerns seriously and will act promptly and appropriately to address any behaviour that negatively impacts a child’s wellbeing.

​

This policy should be read alongside our Child Protection & Safeguarding Policy.

​

1. What is Bullying?

​

Bullying is behaviour that is repeated, intentional, and causes distress or harm to another individual. It can take place both in person and online.

​

Bullying may include:

  • Physical – hitting, pushing or other forms of physical harm

  • Verbal – name-calling, teasing, insults or hurtful comments

  • Non-verbal – gestures, exclusion or intimidating behaviour

  • Online (cyberbullying) – messages, social media posts or group chats used to upset or target others

  • Discriminatory – behaviour related to race, gender, disability, religion or identity

  • Indirect – spreading rumours, excluding others or undermining confidence

​​

2. Our Approach at BDA

​

We believe that:

  • Every child has the right to feel safe and supported

  • Respect, kindness and teamwork are central to everything we do

  • Bullying behaviour is not tolerated, but will be addressed in a fair, constructive and supportive way

​​

We aim not only to respond to bullying, but to prevent it by promoting a positive and respectful culture across all classes.

 

3. Expectations of Everyone at BDA

​

All students, teachers, staff and families share responsibility for maintaining a positive environment.

We expect everyone to:

  • Treat others with kindness, respect and consideration

  • Value differences and celebrate individuality

  • Support and encourage fellow dancers

  • Speak up if they see or experience behaviour that is not acceptable

  • Follow guidance from teachers and staff

​​

Ignoring bullying behaviour is not acceptable — we encourage everyone to play a part in creating a supportive environment.

 

4. Supporting Children

 

At BDA, we aim to create an environment where children feel confident to speak openly.

 

We will:

  • Foster an “open door” culture where children feel safe to share concerns

  • Listen carefully and take all concerns seriously

  • Investigate concerns in a calm, fair and sensitive manner

  • Support any child experiencing bullying to feel safe and confident again

  • Work with children displaying bullying behaviour to help them understand and improve their actions

  • Ensure any actions taken are fair, proportionate and focused on positive outcomes

 

5. Working with Parents & Guardians

 

We believe that strong communication with families is key.

​

  • Parents will be informed of any concerns involving their child

  • We will work collaboratively to agree appropriate next steps

  • Support and guidance will be offered where needed

  • Our aim is always to resolve concerns constructively and support all children involved

 

 

6. Recording & Monitoring

​

  • All concerns and incidents of bullying will be recorded

  • Patterns of behaviour will be monitored where appropriate

  • Safeguarding procedures will be followed where necessary

 

7. Links to Safeguarding

​

Bullying can, in some cases, be a safeguarding concern.

 

Where appropriate, concerns will be managed in line with our Child Protection & Safeguarding Policy, and may be escalated to the Designated Safeguarding Lead.

 

Last updated: April 2026

bottom of page